Montgomery Bar to Honor Superior Court Judge Susan Peikes Gantman

On Monday evening, May 12, 2008 at 5:00 P.M., the Montgomery Bar Association’s Women in the Law Committee will honor Pennsylvania Superior Court Judge Susan Peikes Gantman at a special cocktail reception taking place at the Montgomery Bar Building (100 West Airy Street, Norristown, PA). The Honorable Susan Peikes Gantman will be honored as recipient of the 2008 Margaret Richardson Award.
The Margaret Richardson Award is given annually to a woman “trailblazer” who has advanced the role of women in the legal profession and furthered women’s legal rights. Margaret Richardson was the first female attorney to become a member of the Montgomery Bar.

Richardson began her career as a stenographer in the office of Irvin P. Knipe, Esquire. While working in his office she applied for registration as a law student and was accepted into the Bar in 1899. The award, given in her name, recognizes an attorney in Montgomery County that has significantly advanced the role of women in the field of law.

Judge Gantman exemplifies the meaning and spirit behind this Award. She is a mentor and role model to many in the legal profession.

Some of those who know her have said the following:

"Judge Gantman has advanced the role of women in the profession in so many ways. She served as my mentor for ten years. It is because of Judge Gantman that I have been able to thrive as a family lawyer, to build a book of business, and to develop relationships with other family lawyers. I know that she has mentored countless other women as well. Judge Gantman understood the particular issues that are associated with women in the profession including but not limited to the balance needed to maintain a career while simultaneously managing a family. She has been a truly supportive influence in my life and the lives of other successful female attorneys."

"When I think of individuals how have furthered women's legal rights or access to legal assistance, I think of Judge Gantman."

"She truly is a genuinely compassionate and sincere woman who deserves to be honored by this award."

"She has been selfless in her service to the legal community, and to the Montgomery County community at large."